BMW 335i GT xDrive Improves The Quintessential Sport Sedan

BMW 335i GTBMW’s 3-Series is the quintessential sport sedan, setting a tough standard that others struggle to attain.  But, it is not perfect.  While it’s a finely-engineered toy from behind the wheel, rear seat passengers are better left behind.  And, luggage space?  There’s usually enough, but sometimes not enough.  A low ride height enhances handling, but makes stooping in less than elegant.  There’s room for improvement.

So, here’s where it gets interesting.  BMW took the long-wheelbase executive-focused 3-Series from China and fashioned a long hatchback over it.  Not only do you get regal legroom, but also interior space rivaling a station wagon – all while riding higher and more comfortably than in a 3-Series sedan.  Sure, it doesn’t handle quite as well, but unless you’re Danica Patrick, I doubt you’ll notice.

BMW 335i GTLike other 3-Series, the GT smothers passengers with luxury.  Heated front and rear leather seats, heated steering wheel, Harman Kardon Surround Sound System, Bluetooth calling/audio streaming, and automatic climate control are part of the kit – as are BMW’s decrepit iDrive joywheel-controlled infotainment system that requires you to navigate menus three-deep where simple buttons would suffice.  I love the heads-up display, but good luck figuring out how to adjust it.  BMW could learn from Chevrolet.

That’s the worst of it.  Stretching out under the panoramic sunroof is a nice place to be.  Conveniences like a power rear hatch, dynamic cruise control, and rain-sensing wipers are also appreciated.  Typical of BMWs, everything you scratch or sniff seems well-made.  And if as a driver that bores you, select your favorite driving mode:  Eco Pro, Comfort, Sport, or Sport+.  Each adjusts the throttle, steering, and suspension for your particular mood.

BMW 335i GTJust because it looks like a family-friendly hatchback doesn’t mean it accelerates like one.  It’s a full-on rave juiced with a 300 horsepower turbocharged six-cylinder engine connected to an 8-speed automatic transmission.  BMW claims it will leap from 0-60 mph in just 5.1s.  It’s not all brawn, enabling 20/30-MPG city/hwy with a little help from the octo-trans, direct injection, and auto start/stop technology that pauses the engine at rest.  Forget rest.

While this car is more about quiet confidence than track-storming shenanigans, power is plentiful for a car this size.  The suspension absorbs rough roads with tomb quietness.  During a snowstorm, the xDrive AWD system clawed in and ushered away without drama.  Slick streets barely bothered it.  Sure, you might want to shoe the 18” five-spoke alloys with winter tires instead of the standard all-season tires, but it’s nice to enjoy a German car in all weather.  Slapping curvy backroads during clear weather proves just as easy.

BMW 335i GTBMW seems intent on creating every form and fashion of car, creating odd-shaped performers that seemingly nobody requested.  Most of these come in the form of tall hatchbacks like the 335i GT.  I thought it was all a bunch of silliness at first, but I get it.  Why not drive an enjoyable BMW that is also very practical?  If it looks a little weird, get over it.  A base price of $41,450, and $57,525 as-tested, puts it against the Audi Allroad, Infiniti QX50, Toyota Venza, and Volvo V60.

Storm Forward!

2014 BMW 335i GT xDrive
Five-passenger, AWD sedan
Powertrain: 300hp 3.0-liter turbo-6, 8-spd auto trans
Suspension f/r: Ind/Ind
Wheels: 18”/18” alloy f/r
Brakes: disc/disc fr/rr with ABS
Must-have features: Performance, Utility
Fuel economy: 20/30 mpg city/hwy
Base/as-tested price: $41,450/57,525